Bailey honored for 44 years of service

Saturday

Dec 7, 2013 at 9:34 AMDec 7, 2013 at 9:34 AM

The Hillsdale Daily NewsCAMDEN — Merry Bailey, a 44-year member of the Camden Volunteer Fire Department, was recently recognized as she retired from the department.Approximately 60 firemen, past and present, family members and community leaders gathered at the Camden Missionary Church Outreach Center for the celebration.Bailey joined the Auxiliary when her husband, Jerry, became a fireman in 1969. A few years later, she became a full member.She served in many capacities, including secretary, media contact, supplier of water, soft drinks and coffee to firemen on the scene, traffic control, triage nurse; filing fire reports, leader of fire safety programs, coordinator for CPR and HAZMAT training classes, ordering food licenses, fire equipment and supplies and working the food booth at the Camden Farmer's Day.She was known for befriending and assisting new firemen. Many of them referred to her as "Mama Bailey."She said a highlight of her time on the department was the emergency delivery of Craig and Crystal Kurtz's daughter at their home. Kurtz was a fireman at the time.Mike Kurtz, fire chief and Emery Hartman, assistant chief presented Bailey with a plaque. The plaque read, "Camden Fire and Rescue Volunteer Fire Department offer their sincere gratitude to Merry Bailey in recognition of her 44 years of pride, dedication and professionalism."Village President Harold Walker presented Bailey with a gift from the village and praised her for her dedicated service to the community.The Hillsdale Market House created a prime rib and chicken buffet for the event.

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